Android tablets can integrate seamlessly with other Android devices through built-in features, third-party apps, and ecosystem tools designed for cross-device functionality. The most effective methods depend on your goals—whether you want to share files, mirror screens, extend displays, or manage notifications across devices. Google’s native cross-device services enable core functions like hotspot control and call casting, while Samsung’s proprietary tools (Flow, SmartThings, Smart View) offer deeper integration for Galaxy devices. For advanced use cases like remote control or synchronized media playback, third-party apps such as TeamViewer, AllCast, or VLC provide solutions, though with varying limitations.

Key findings from the sources:

• Google’s cross-device services require Android 11+, a shared Google Account, and Bluetooth to enable features like internet sharing and app switching ^[1].
• Samsung-specific tools (Flow, SmartThings, Smart View) allow screen mirroring, file transfers, and smart home control but are limited to Galaxy devices ^[3].
• Third-party apps like TeamViewer or AllCast enable remote control or media synchronization but may depend on internet quality or Wi-Fi connectivity ^[6][7].
• Hardware limitations prevent native extended display support on Android without kernel modifications, though workarounds exist for specific apps ^[4].

Connecting and Integrating Android Tablets with Other Devices

Using Google’s Built-In Cross-Device Services

Google’s ecosystem provides native tools to link Android tablets with phones or other devices, focusing on continuity and convenience. These features are accessible through the Devices & sharing menu in Settings and require minimal setup, but they come with specific compatibility constraints.

To enable cross-device services, users must:

• Ensure both devices run Android 11 or higher and share the same Google Account ^[1].
• Activate Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on all devices for seamless communication ^[1].
• Navigate to Settings > Google > Devices & sharing > Cross-device services to manage device groups and toggle features like internet sharing or call casting ^[1].

Key functionalities include:

• Hotspot control: Turn your phone’s hotspot on/off directly from the tablet without manual input ^[1].
• Call casting: Answer or make calls from the tablet using the phone’s cellular connection, provided both devices are nearby ^[1].
• App switching: Transfer ongoing tasks (e.g., a YouTube video or Google Maps navigation) between devices mid-session ^[1].
• Device groups: View and manage all linked devices under one Google Account, with options to rename or remove them ^[1].

Limitations:

• Samsung devices cannot use internet sharing via cross-device services, though other features remain available ^[1].
• Android Go devices are explicitly excluded from these services ^[1].
• Features like app switching may not work uniformly across all apps, depending on developer support ^[1].

For users within the Google ecosystem, these tools eliminate the need for third-party apps for basic tasks. However, those seeking deeper integration (e.g., screen mirroring or file synchronization) may need to supplement with additional solutions.

Samsung-Specific Integration: Flow, SmartThings, and Smart View

Samsung Galaxy tablets offer proprietary methods to connect with other devices, particularly within the Samsung ecosystem. These tools are designed for screen mirroring, file transfers, and smart home management, but they require Samsung-branded hardware and software.

1. Samsung Flow

Samsung Flow allows users to mirror their phone’s screen on a tablet, share notifications, and transfer files seamlessly. Setup involves:

• Installing the Samsung Flow app on both devices from the Galaxy Store or Google Play ^[3].
• Pairing devices via Bluetooth and following on-screen prompts to establish a connection ^[3].
• Enabling permissions for screen sharing or notification syncing as needed ^[3].

Use cases:

• Extended workspace: Use the tablet as a secondary display for multitasking (e.g., running a reference app on the tablet while working on the phone) ^[3].
• Unified notifications: Receive and respond to phone alerts directly from the tablet ^[3].
• File transfers: Drag and drop files between devices without cloud services ^[3].

Limitations:

• Only compatible with Samsung Galaxy devices (phones, tablets, or PCs) ^[3].
• Requires both devices to be signed into the same Samsung account ^[3].

2. SmartThings

For users with smart home devices, the SmartThings app centralizes control through the tablet. Key steps:

• Open the SmartThings app and tap Add Device to connect compatible smart home products (e.g., lights, thermostats) ^[3].
• Create automation routines (e.g., turning off lights when the tablet’s battery is low) ^[3].
• Monitor device status and receive alerts for events like motion detection ^[3].

3. Smart View

Smart View enables screen mirroring from the tablet to a TV or another Samsung device. To use it:

• Swipe down the notification panel and tap the Smart View icon ^[3].
• Select the target device (e.g., a Samsung TV or phone) from the list of available connections ^[3].
• Mirror the entire screen or cast specific media (e.g., videos, photos) ^[3].

Third-Party Solutions for Advanced Use Cases

For functionality beyond native tools—such as remote control, extended displays, or synchronized media—third-party apps fill the gap, though often with trade-offs in performance or setup complexity.

Remote Device Control

Apps like TeamViewer allow users to control one Android device from another, useful for troubleshooting or accessing files remotely. The process involves:

• Installing TeamViewer Quick Support on the device to be controlled and TeamViewer for Remote Control on the controlling device ^[6].
• Entering the partner ID from the controlled device into the controller app to establish a connection ^[6].
• Adjusting settings for optimal performance, noting that speed depends on internet quality ^[6].

Limitations:

• Latency may occur with slow connections, making it impractical for real-time tasks ^[6].
• Permissions must be granted for screen sharing and input control, which may raise security concerns ^[6].

Synchronized Media Playback

To play the same video on multiple devices simultaneously (e.g., for children in a car), users can employ apps like AllCast Receiver or VLC:

• Install AllCast Receiver on the secondary device and Mirror on the primary device ^[7].
• Select the secondary device from the cast list in the Mirror app to start streaming ^[7].
• Alternatively, use VLC’s network streaming feature to sync playback across devices on the same Wi-Fi network ^[7].

Challenges:

• Audio sync may require manual adjustment, especially if devices have varying processing speeds ^[7].
• Not all apps support casting, limiting compatibility for certain media ^[7].

Extended Display Limitations

Android’s kernel does not natively support extended displays like Windows or macOS, meaning users cannot use a second tablet as a secondary monitor without modifications ^[4]. Workarounds include:

• HDMI output via USB-C for external monitors (supported on select tablets like the Galaxy Tab S7) ^[4].
• Rooting the device to enable multi-display functionality, which voids warranties and poses security risks ^[4].
• App-specific solutions (e.g., using DeX mode for a desktop-like experience on a single screen) ^[4].

Compatibility and Best Practices

To ensure smooth integration between an Android tablet and other devices, consider the following:

• Same Google/Samsung account: Syncing is most reliable when devices share an account ^[1][3].
• Android version: Cross-device services require Android 11+, while older devices may lack support ^[1].
• Bluetooth/Wi-Fi: Enable both for faster connections and lower latency ^[1][3].
• App permissions: Grant necessary permissions (e.g., storage access, microphone) for features like file transfers or calls ^[3].
• Security: Use trusted apps (e.g., TeamViewer, Google Cast) to avoid data leaks when sharing screens or files ^[10].

For non-Samsung tablets, Google’s cross-device services and third-party apps are the primary options, while Samsung users benefit from deeper native integration. Always check app-specific requirements (e.g., VLC for media sync) to avoid compatibility issues.